What is a British Miniature Horse?
A Miniature Horse should be a perfectly scaled down version of a quality ridden horse. At maturity it should measure not more than 87cm (34 inches) at the withers. We do not seek to miniaturise any particular breed, but would give as a guide to type, somewhere between a Hack and a Hunter as being the correct height to weight ratio.
The miniature horse should have the same conformation and movement as would be desirable in its full sized counterpart. It is definitely not
a dwarf or an undersized pony but should have been selectively bred to ensure both its own correctness and suitability for breeding.
To be eligible for registration onto the BMHS Stud Book a foal must have two BMHS registered parents. Horses with one registered parent are eligible for the Part Bred appendix. If the registered parent is the sire he must be fully licensed. (See 'Part Bred Register' under 'Registration' on this website). Horses may also be assessed for the breeding register only (see 'Registration', 'Eligibility and Hardshipping'). Unregistered horses may compete in Star Seeker Classes to qualify for the Star Seeker Championship at the Breed Show, the winners of which are eligible for registration subject to vetting and measurement. (See 'Showing' 'Star Seeker Series')
Our miniatures are in every way horses so have the same requirements as any equine both for nutrition and housing and they require the companionship of their own species. Properly introduced they can make suitable companions to larger horses particularly when stabled or travelling. However, they have so much to offer in their own right with full size personalities and characters. They are quick to learn and eager to please and can be taught to jump, perform dressage movements, complete obstacle courses and also to drive, being able to pull approximately 1.5 times their own weight. Happy to be the centre of attention our miniatures enjoy visiting schools and hospices as well as making television appearances.
